How to Remove Water Marks from the Aluminum Exterior of an RV

Table of Contents:

You Will Need
Steps to Remove the Stains

Lisa asked: How do I remove water marks from the aluminum on the exterior of an RV? How do I protect/prevent it not only from water marks, but also from oxidizing so quickly? The exterior of my RV has non-polished aluminum siding. I’ve tried commercial cleaners, an orbital buffer and a lot of hand rubbing to try to remove water marks and haze caused from exposure to weather. The RV is a 2001.

Hydrofluoric acid is frequently used to clean aluminum, but it’s a hazardous material that can be dangerous to work with. Instead of taking chances with chemicals, why not give this solution a try? It safely removes a number of marks and stains from both painted and unpainted aluminum, and in most cases leaves aluminum looking brand new.

You Will Need:

Streak Master (or comparable) cleaner
Aluminum polish
Bucket
Water
Sponge, rag, or other cleaning tool

Steps to Remove the Stains:

Choose the cleaning formula that best suits your project. Bare Aluminum Cleaner & Brightener works for bare metal, while Extreme Black Streak and Stain Remover is ideal for painted aluminum where stains have settled deep into the paint.
Heed all product safety precautions before you begin. Refer to your product for use and advice.
Dilute the aluminum cleaner according to directions. Generally speaking, the dilution ratio for polished aluminum is 1 part cleaner to 24 parts water. To clean older mill finished aluminum or extruded aluminum, dilute to 1 part cleaner to 15 parts water for light oxidation or 1 part cleaner to 5 parts water for extreme oxidation and cleaning.
Follow label directions for use and clean up.
Finish with aluminum polish to protect against future stains.